The Cancer Coalition of South Georgia’s third-annual fundraising gala “Night for Hope” raised net proceeds of more than $30,000 to fight cancer in the region, officials with the Cancer Coalition announced on Monday.

“Every dollar donated to the Cancer Coalition helps to support our work right here,” said Coalition CEO Diane Fletcher.

The Cancer Coalition provides cancer related services, education, research and outreach exclusively in the area’s communities. The event, held on Feb. 6 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Albany, featured a plated dinner accompanied by music from Dr. Jose Tongol’s band, JT’s Yoyos – Musicians Playing for a Cause, followed by dancing to The Hollywood Band.

The hundreds of auction items included gift cards provided by businesses, a dove hunt in Argentina and a game bat and batting glove signed by Buster Posey. Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to learn about the Cancer Coalition’s mission and its work in the community.

Nearly 200 guests joined in honoring cancer survivor and Albany Technical College President Anthony Parker, this year’s honoree for “Night for Hope.” The event raised $50,000 and $35,000 during its first and second years, respectively.

A “Night for Hope” event was also held in Valdosta on Saturday, and an event is planned in Americus later in the year.

Corporate partners for the Albany “Night for Hope” included Keystone Foods/Equity Group, Southeastern Credit Union, DOCO Credit Union, Georgia Power and MillerCoors. Presenting sponsors were Albany Tech, the Parker family and the Pickney family. Additional sponsors were Phoebe Putney Health System, Phoebe Cancer Center, Albany CEO, Albany State University, Radiation Oncology Associates, Flint Equipment Company, McLendon Acres, Phoebe Surgical Oncology, WALB, Procter & Gamble, The Albany Herald, Oxford Construction Company, city of Albany, WFXL, Dr. James A. Hotz and family, Lemuel and Linda Griffin, Adams Exterminators, Alithicon Lubricants, Bethel AME Church, MetroPower, Inc., SB&T and The Veranda.

The “Night for Hope” Planning Committee members were Mary Brown, Virginia Wright Chatmon, Cathy Clyde, Kathy Culbreth, Leigh Deaton, Nancy Gay, Keva Harris, Wendy Howell, Karen Mitchell, Lidia Olds and Vicky Stephens.

Cancer Coalition leadership, staff and volunteers are already looking to the 2017 event. Planning will begin this summer and those interested in sponsorships, volunteering or learning more are encouraged to contact Jennifer Johnston at (229) 312-1700 or [email protected].